Will signs new deal

Will Nightingale has been rewarded for his impressive first-team return with a new contract at AFC Wimbledon.

The 21-year-old defender, who has been with the club since he was nine, signed on the dotted line today.

It caps a great few weeks for the academy graduate, who has bounced back from a serious knee injury to help the Dons earn seven points out of nine.

Speaking during an interview for Dons Player, Neal Ardley said: “Will has today extended his contract here. As we all know, Will has not had a great time with injuries of late, but we have tinkered with a system and given him some game-time. Will got himself back into the team, he has taken that opportunity, and run with it. He has done really well and we are delighted to extend his contract.

“Will is a grafter in the gym and he has been a grafter in his rehabilitation. We have spoken to him because he has bravery – Paul Robinson and Darius Charles have that – but you have to make sure your body is set. You have to ensure your body is set when you are doing those brave actions and once or twice Will has not quite done that. Unfortunately, he has been punished for it. We need to adjust his game, keep that aggression and bravery, but make sure his body can handle the times when he does have to lunge in.”

Following his first-team return at Gillingham, Will has played in every game since, making 10 appearances in all this season.